Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs for 8–10 people)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
- 2 whole lemons
- 3 medium onions
- 1 whole head of garlic
- 1 stick (1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: celery and carrots for the roasting pan
Instructions
- Thaw your turkey properly (allow 24 hours per 5 pounds in the refrigerator)
- Remove giblets and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels
- Let butter come to room temperatureRemove turkey from fridge 1 hour before cooking
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Create your herb butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepperGently separate skin from meat without tearing
- Massage herb butter under the skin and all over the outside
- Fill cavity with quartered lemons, onions, and herb sprigs
- Place remaining vegetables in the roasting pan to create a natural rackCalculate roughly 15 minutes per pound
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 158°F at the thickest part
- Let rest for 30-45 minutes before carving
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Christmas Food, Christmas Holiday Food, dinner, Thanksgiving meal
- Cuisine: American, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Tradition